Commuters in Sydney, NSW will be able to choose a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter transfer minibus in the first series of some on-demand public transport trials.
The new on-demand ride service called Transdev Link is operated by transport company Transdev in partnership with Transport for New South Wales, will launch later this year.
The service will offer commuters a flexible door-to-door transport solution to get to and from major activity hubs, such as bus and train stations, medical and business precincts, and shopping centres. Trips are booked via a smartphone app, online or over the phone.
“With Transdev Link, customers can put their bus timetables away and enjoy a personalised shuttle service when and where they need it in their local area,” says Transdev chief executive officer René Lalande.
“The combination of on-demand transport, with traditional bus, rail and ferry services can deliver better customer service outcomes, reduce congestion and offer value for money for government.”
Ten Mercedes-Benz Sprinter transfer minibuses will be tailored to meet the specific needs of the trial, featuring free WiFi, USB points for charging mobile devices, electric sliding doors and privacy glass. Some will also be fitted with wheel chair lifts.
“One of the key pillars of our strategic future initiative adVANce is new mobility concepts for the on-demand transportation of goods and people,” says Mercedes-Benz Vans managing director Diane Tarr.
“The trial fits perfectly with this direction and, at the same time, will showcase the functionality and reliability of our Sprinter Transfer Minibus,” she says.
“It’s a fantastic initiative by both Transdev and the New South Wales Government, and we are very pleased to be a part of it,” says Tarr.
Transdev employs around 5800 people across Australia and New Zealand, delivering 145 million customer journeys every year.
